Kent Conrad: “We are both persuaded that if we don't address the long-term entitlement changes that are necessary in this country, we…”

“We are both persuaded that if we don't address the long-term entitlement changes that are necessary in this country, we put this country at risk. We are talking about the national security of our Nation because, fundamentally, that cannot be preserved if we don't get our long-term fiscal house in order. The issue before us tonight is a reserve fund in the budget for tobacco revenue. I would be swift to acknowledge that Medicare is a priority, but it's not the only priority. Medicare does not represent the national tobacco policy. We have to do more with those tobacco revenues than just strengthen the Medicare Program.”